BBQ season is here, and along with it come all those delicious foods that just beg to put your pearly whites to the test. When you’re grilling up burgers and indulging in all those wonderful sauces, trying to keep those teeth white might feel like quite the challenge. It’s easy enough to get a glowing smile with whitening, but how to keep it that way during this season is usually the problem.
Well, BBQ sauces, red wine, and other foods that cause stains can’t help but quickly dull your efforts. Not to worry! Here are some tips to protect your smile and keep your teeth white, even on those busy days of BBQ.
Why BBQ Season Can Affect Your Teeth Whitening
BBQ foods are delicious, but they can be very hazardous when it comes to whitening your teeth. The sauces in the BBQ meals are rather dark and viscous, which makes them cling to your teeth, causing discoloration.
Drinks such as red wine and cola are just as guilty, leaving hard-to-remove stains. Acidic foods like tomatoes within the barbecue sauces can wear away at your enamel, allowing stains to set in.
This means that the greater challenge lies in ways to enjoy your favorite BBQ flavors without compromising your whitened teeth. However, with just a few simple steps, one can still indulge in all the BBQ goodness after getting teeth whitening in Irvine and without compromising on the smile.
How to Keep Your Whitened Teeth
Use a Straw for Dark Drinks: Using a straw while sipping on dark drinks, like soda or wine, reduces contact with the teeth. This cuts down on staining and helps keep your smile brighter.
Brush afterwards: Because BBQ is full of dark sauces and stains, you must brush immediately after eating. That way, stains don’t have the chance to set into your enamel, keeping your teeth much whiter.
Drink Water: Keep a glass of water handy during your BBQ. Drinking water not only keeps you hydrated but also helps wash away any food particles and stains.
Avoid Sticky Sauces: Sticky sauces like BBQ sauces are likely to stick to your teeth, hence causing discoloration. Less sticky sauces could be used, or teeth cleaning immediately after use is recommended.
Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum helps neutralize the acids and freshens your breath. This is an effortless action that gives you protection for your teeth while you enjoy the day.
Regular Touch-ups with Teeth Whitening Products: Keeping your teeth whiter and brighter is possible by using teeth whitening products periodically. Periodical whitening touch-ups will help one keep their teeth fresh and bright throughout the BBQ season.
Protect Your Teeth with Regular Dental Care
Regular dental visits, especially during BBQ season when foods that cause stains are everywhere, will ensure your teeth are healthy, and the whitening results will remain.
Your dentist can recommend professional touch-ups or maintenance treatments to keep your smile at its best. Keeping up with regular check-ups helps catch any dental issues early on, ensuring that your teeth stay strong and free of stains.
Maintenance of teeth whitening during BBQ season does not have to be an uphill task. With simple things, such as brushing after meals, using a straw, and drinking plenty of water, you can protect your smile. Enjoy the BBQ festivities with small steps in preserving your whitened teeth.
Are you ready to maintain that smile this BBQ season? Consult with our professional dentist today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to use teeth whitening strips during BBQ season?
Yes, but be cautious with overuse. Always follow the instructions to avoid sensitivity.
How does chewing sugar-free gum help my teeth whitening?
It helps stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids and prevents staining.
Can I drink lemonade while maintaining teeth whitening?
Lemonade is acidic and can erode enamel. If you drink it, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
How can I reduce the effects of dark sauces on my teeth?
Clean your teeth right after eating, and consider using a whitening mouthwash to prevent stains.
Should I brush my teeth right after eating BBQ?
Yes, brushing your teeth right after eating helps remove stains and prevents them from settling into your enamel.
